BIG-HEARTED Tyson Fury travels around the UK to give advice to children about fighting.
After retiring in April, the Gypsy King, 33 years old, is currently on a tour across the country. He stopped by Billingham Boxing Academy, Durham, on Sunday to meet its young boxers.
Tyson Fury was impressed by Billingham's gym and its students
Fury provided encouragement and advice for the children and coaches
The Gypsy King took the time to talk to each boxer individually
Fury and father John were stunned by the stories of some of their children, coaches Adrian Worth and Stephen Hollingsworth.
Fury was amazed to discover that the gym actively seeks out bouts for their children - one 12-year old has 21 fights under him, which Fury couldn't believe.
Worth said that the children were in awe of Fury, the heavyweight champion world heavyweight. Fury responded with enthusiasm.
SunSport spoke with him: "The children were clearly all interested in him, and couldn't wait until to meet him. But he was equally interested in them and wanted all the questions. You could see that he was truly impressed by 10-year olds who had more than ten bouts.
"He got everyone together, and asked them who were the active boxers in their area. He then went to each child individually and asked how many fights they had.
Tyson asked a child how many he had, and the kid replied '17.' Tyson responded by saying 'no way' that he'd had 17 bouts. It's impossible to have had it when you're just 10-years old. I'm amazed that it's possible.
He said that because he was a big boy when he was younger and he didn't start boxing until he turned 15 because he couldn’t get around.
"So he said to the children, "Some of you are ahead than I was at that time and look at what I've achieved. So just imagine what you can do."
Fury was also impressed by the gym's fights and how many it organizes for its members.
Billingham's work to raise awareness about mental health was also highly praised by him. He was also impressed with the classes offered for people with disabilities.
Worth adding: "He was also impressed by the boxing club. His dad John and all the coaches found him to be very encouraging.
"He thanked us and said that it was amazing to see the impact we are making. We also offer classes for children with autism, classes for people with Parkinson's and mental health workshops.
"They thought it was amazing all the stuff we do.
"It's great that he is offering advice to young people, because he didn’t have to go to the gym. He did it on his own.
